Getting groceries delivered is super convenient, especially when you’re busy or can’t easily get to the store. Instacart is a popular service that lets you shop from various stores online and have your groceries brought right to your door. But if you use EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) for your food shopping, you might be wondering which stores on Instacart let you pay with it. Let’s dive into which stores accept EBT on Instacart and everything you need to know!
Which Major Grocery Chains Accept EBT on Instacart?
So, which stores actually take EBT cards when you order through Instacart? The main stores that allow you to use your EBT card on Instacart are generally grocery store chains. This means you can often use your benefits at places like:
Let’s consider some specific stores:
- ALDI (in some areas)
- Food Lion
- Publix
- ShopRite
- Safeway
Remember, availability can change based on your location, so it’s always a good idea to double-check. For example, you might find:
Checking EBT Availability in Your Area
It’s not as simple as saying “all” or “none” for a specific store. Things vary. The best way to find out if a store near you accepts EBT on Instacart is to check directly on the Instacart app or website. Go through the following steps:
- Open the Instacart app or go to the website.
- Enter your delivery address.
- Look for stores that are available in your area.
- Check the individual store’s information page.
If a store accepts EBT, there will often be an indication, such as an EBT icon or a note about payment options. If you do not see that, you can also try adding groceries to your cart and trying to check out to see your payment options.
Sometimes, you won’t find any clear answers upfront. In this case, it’s best to experiment a bit. If it’s not immediately clear, you can also contact Instacart’s customer support.
Understanding EBT Eligibility and Restrictions
Not everything you can buy with cash is eligible for EBT purchases. There are some limits! You can generally use your EBT card to purchase:
* Food items, such as fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and cereals.
* Seeds and plants that produce food.
You cannot usually purchase non-food items with EBT. This includes:
* Alcohol and tobacco.
* Vitamins and supplements.
* Pet food.
* Household supplies.
Make sure that you are paying for things that are EBT eligible. Double-check the item’s description before adding it to your cart.
How to Add Your EBT Card on Instacart
Adding your EBT card to Instacart is pretty easy. Here’s how you can typically do it:
First, you’ll need to have an Instacart account. Once you have that, follow these general steps, although the exact steps may vary slightly based on updates to the app or website. Here’s what you can expect:
- Go to your account settings.
- Find the “Payment” section.
- Look for an option to add a new payment method.
- Enter your EBT card information.
- You might need to enter your card number, expiration date, and security code.
You’ll also need to add a secondary payment method (like a credit or debit card) to cover non-EBT eligible items, taxes, and delivery fees. You also may have to add a credit card so that Instacart can verify who you are.
The Two-Card Payment Method and Split Payments
Here’s a critical thing to know: you probably can’t pay for your entire Instacart order with just your EBT card. Because you can’t use EBT for delivery fees, tips, and any non-food items, you’ll need a secondary payment method. This is called “split payments.”
When you check out, the Instacart system should automatically prompt you to split the payment. It will charge the EBT card for the eligible food items, and then it will charge the secondary payment method for any fees, taxes, and non-eligible items. The process is as follows:
* Your EBT card covers the approved food items.
* Your secondary card pays for all the rest.
This two-card system is how Instacart makes it possible to use your EBT benefits. It’s just something to be aware of when you’re setting up your payment.
Troubleshooting EBT Payment Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go smoothly. You might run into some problems with your EBT card on Instacart. Here are a few common issues and what you can do:
| Issue | Possible Solution |
|---|---|
| Card Declined | Make sure your EBT card has enough balance and that the card details are correctly entered in Instacart. |
| Incorrect Items Charged | Double-check your order to make sure only eligible food items are in your cart. |
| Unable to Add Card | Contact Instacart customer support for help, as it could be a technical issue. |
If you are having problems with a specific item, try removing it from your cart and adding it again. Also, ensure you have enough funds on both your EBT card and your secondary payment card.
Conclusion
Using your EBT card on Instacart is a fantastic way to have groceries delivered. Just remember that the stores that accept EBT on Instacart can vary depending on your location. Check the Instacart app or website for the most accurate information, and always double-check the eligibility of items before adding them to your cart. By following these steps and understanding the process, you can easily use your EBT benefits to get your groceries delivered with Instacart and make your life a little easier.